Monterey County Office of Education Early Learning Program

The Monterey County Office of Education Early Learning Program offers Head Start, which provides comprehensive early childhood education and child and family services. It also offers the California State Preschool Program for eligible families in Monterey County.

Programs

• Head Start — 3-5 years · Provides comprehensive early childhood education and child and family services.
• California State Preschool Program — Preschool age 3-4 years before September 2nd · Available to eligible families in Monterey County.

At a glance

• Ages: 3–5 years old

About the provider

Program history states that the Monterey County Board of Supervisors was awarded funding in 1965 to start a summer program in Castroville serving about 100 children and families. In 1972, MCOE became the Head Start Grantee, and in 2001 it received an Early Head Start Program contract. In 2018, the California Department of Education granted state funding to serve children, and in 2019 the program received another award to expand part time and full time care for children with a higher income than Head Start's guidelines. The program states that it works in partnership with the community and emphasizes parent participation, family engagement, and shared governance through a Policy Council.

The program serves children ages 3-5 years and also states services are provided to children 18 months-5 years old, including children with disabilities. Children with diverse needs are welcome. A minimum of 10% of all children enrolled must be children with a diagnosed disability. The program enrolls up to 10% of families who are over the income guidelines based on needs such as children with disabilities. No transportation is provided.

Last updated October 4, 2026.